Getting Started...

[3greatkids]

After 3 years in public schools, we will be starting our homeschool adventure this fall. Our son is 8 and will be in third grade and our twins daughters are 6 and entering first grade. We are so excited, but want to be sure we place the children correctly so that it is a positive learning experience. Thinking of placing our daughters in Beyond with the emerging readers set. They can read starter books, level 1 and 2, and know over 200 sight words. Thinking of putting them into Singapore 1A/1B. They can count to 100, write their numbers, and do simple addition and subtraction to ten thus far. My son is trickier. Thinking Bigger for him with Drawn into the Heart of Reading, level 2/3. He can read Magic Treehouse books independently in two days. Took the Singapore placement test and he struggled a bit with test 2A, so thinking of having him do 2A/2B even though he will be a third grader. If I purchase the level 3 book pack from Drawn into the Heart of Reading, do I need to buy the deluxe package from Bigger with more read alouds? Saw some reviews that the science was "light"; will I need to supplement? Is there a materials list with each program? So thankful that there is a Christian-based curriculum that is totally comprehensive. Can't wait to determine what our needs are, order the materials, and get started!

[Gwenny]

Welcome to home schooing and to HOD! You have picked an awesome place to begin your journey. Carrie, the author, has created wonderful programs that are open and go and full of incredible learning for our children. Also, the board is full of wonderful ladies that are so helpful and encouraging. Sorry it's taken so long to answer you here, normally things get answered sooner. I think everyone is pretty busy right now.
It sounds like you have probably picked the right programs for the children. Just wanted to make sure you looked at the placement chart on the website though and made sure it lined up there.
As far as Bigger deluxe package, it is scheduled to do both, the storytime (which is those books in the deluxe package) and DITHR 5 days a week. They are two different things. Storytime is when you read to the child and DITHR is the child reading to you. They both build different skills. You want to make sure that the books they are reading in DITHR are not too challenging to them. Pick something well within their reading ability, or possibly a little "easier". That way the readings go well, as reading out loud is a little more difficult sometimes, and they are able to fully comprehend and "work" with the material with the DITHR book. My 10 yo is reading well above the DITHR level 3 book pack, but that's what I have her read out loud for me for DITHR. She could easily read the storytime books on her own, but she still likes to be read to, I enjoy it, and I think it builds good skills of listening. That said, time is a premium sometimes, and sometimes I have her read the section by herself if I can't get to it.

I hope this helps some and that others can chime in if I've forgotten something. Check out the placement chart, if you haven't, and come back and let us know what you think!

Blessings!

[3greatkids]

Thank you so much for the prompt response! It is so encouraging to see the program working so well for so many families, especially with kids at various ages. I did look at the placement chart which was helpful for sure. Felt discouraged that we would be doing second grade math again, but see that is common for kids transitioning into Singapore. So very thankful to have the opportunity to try homeschooling with the kids!

[Mercy]

Hello!
Welcome to HOD! I am in a rush, but wanted to bump you up to the top so that you are noticed and hopefully someone can help you out soon.
Have a great day!
Mercy